Nathan Hines to join Leinster

One of only two “Scottish” players in the original 37-man Lions squad, Australian-born Hines is leaving newly-installed French champions Perpignan and is expected to finalise a two-year deal to join the Heineken Cup champions this week.

Born in Wagga Wagga, Hines qualified to play for Scotland through his maternal grandfather. He played rugby league with the North Sydney Bears up to under-21 level before switching codes and joining Manly.

He moved to Scotland in 1998, joining Gala, and, after helping them complete a cup and league double, Hines won the first of his 58 caps for Scotland against the All Blacks in Eden Park in 2000.

A fine ball-carrier with very good offloading skills for a 6ft 7in (2 metres) and 18st (114kg) lock, the fiery Hines will also bring an abrasive edge to Leinster’s game.